Echoes fill the arena. Stomps shake the floor. The lights shine brightly over the bright orange volleyball court, dominated by tall players. A player steps forward, a muscular back with the jersey number 4. A blue and white jersey for Team Russia.
He took a slow step forward as the lights backlit the volleyball, ominously floating in the air. He took another step forward, quickly speeding up, his long legs slam on the court, swinging his arms like wings of a phoenix. flying in front of the net.
"Volleyball... a game of relentless momentum. It's a dance of precision, a battle of resilience, a struggle not only against an opponent but against one's own limitations. Every serve, every spike, every dive leaves a mark—a testament to the dedication, the drive, the pursuit of something greater than victory itself."
Kurai leaned his head back on the soft headrest of the bus seat. Townhouses and parking lots passing by outside.
"But sometimes, a single player can change everything. They come to the court carrying the weight of dreams, each play echoing with the hopes of those who came before. And from these players rise something extraordinary… something the world can't ignore. Legends call us the 'Monster Generation.'" Kurai clicks his pen and spins it in his fingers, putting it up to his lips.
In an instant, A massive iron wall appears in front of the net, marked by the Brazilian flag. Seemingly blocking out the ceiling lights of the Arena.
"The Monster Generation. A force of players who shatter records, defy limits, and play as if born for the court... We are rivals, friends, challengers, and inspirations to each other. And this summer, Everyone expects the greatest showdown amongst us… they will gather—players from around the world to watch us…" Kurai exhales and puts his notebook in his bag. 'Can I hold up to my name?... I WILL win the Olympics' Kurai's eyes glow as he enters a state of flow.
[One Week Ago]
Jaden found Kurai by the gym entrance, packing up his bag after their final practice. He hesitated for a moment, then walked over, hands in his pockets.
"Hey, Kurai," Jaden began, his voice a little softer than usual.
"Before you head off... there's something I want to say." Kurai looked up, a little surprised by Jaden's tone.
"Yeah? What's up?" Jaden took a deep breath, his gaze steady.
"I just wanted to thank you. Not just for leading us this year or pushing us so hard, but... for bringing life back to OPU volleyball." He paused, glancing away as if gathering his thoughts.
"When my brother played, he had this dream, you know? That OPU could be great, that it could be more than just a stepping stone for people. And... you helped make that a reality." Kurai's expression softened.
"You don't have to thank me, Jaden. You and everyone else worked just as hard. All I did was believe in you guys." Jaden shook his head, a small smile forming.
"No, man. You did more than that. You gave us a reason to believe in ourselves. You made my brother's dream come true, and I know he'd be proud." He extended his hand, looking Kurai in the eye.
"So... Thank you. And good luck out there. I'll be watching every game, cheering you on." Kurai took his hand, the handshake firm but full of respect.
"Thanks, Jaden. It means a lot, coming from you. I'll do my best to make you guys proud." Jaden's eyes sparkled with excitement and pride.
"You already have… Now go show the world what you can do." They shared a grin, one of mutual respect and friendship, before Jaden pulled him in for a quick hug—a rare show of warmth from him.
As they broke apart, Kurai gave him a nod, determination and gratitude filling his expression. Then, with one last look at his teammate and friend, he shouldered his bag and stepped out, ready for the next chapter.
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Kurai exhaled and leaned his head against the window. Watching out the window as the Olympics sign passed by.